I'm 27, from Ebbw Vale. Following my Dad's suicide when I was aged 22, I took over the family business Local Timber Merchants South Wales | Philip Jones Timber Products Losing my Dad due to his battle with his mental health, which no one was aware of obviously had a knock on effect on me.

I've tried to look after myself in various ways over the past few years but have always seemed to have trained aimlessly and without focus due to my commitments. Recently I took part in one of the toughest challenges I've ever faced.

A friend introduced me to boxing to off load stress, improve my fitness and well being. Since then I've been part of a small supportive group, who encouraged me to take part in a white collar boxing match to challenge myself and set a goal.

I started PT with Jodi Beynon this summer but had felt like I had no goal to work towards. When asked initially I said no. After a few days I changed my mind. It was easy to commit to the training involved as I'm passionate about the charity we were raising money and awareness for. Finally I had something to set fitness goals for despite it taking me out of my comfort zone.

Training for the event made me accountable and disciplined as I was training towards a specific date and goal. I was part of a very supportive training camp.

On Saturday 4th November 2023, I took part in Welsh Warriors White Collar Boxing Charity event organised by Shannon Rich & Thomas Battiscombe in aid of Bronwens W;sh ( a young persons mental health charity)

I fought three 2 minute rounds against Elin Kilby, and won the match but we were both winners. It was a well organised and professional event, held at Vale Sports Arena, Penarth.

I'd like to congratulate everyone that took part in the event, we are all winners and raised awareness for the cause.

Also a big thank you to Ioan Lane (Head of the Valleys ABC) for suggesting it and getting me ready for it, Jodi Beynon for adapting PT sessions to suit my training needsand pushing me to my limits. Rhys Watkins for his help, guidance & support.

I am grateful to my partner Rob, family and friends for supporting me throughout the training and with your generous donations I have raised £2425 and there are still donations coming in.

My advice to anyone thinking about is - just do it! It is the best challenge you will ever do mentally and physically. Welsh Warrior White Collar Boxing are recruiting for their next event which is 13th April 2024. Get in touch with them.

If you are suffering with your mental health my advice would be to seek professional help. I am connected to many people involved in agriculture and recommend Mental Health Farming Charity | Home | The DPJ Foundation. Also get active, find something you enjoy and you can commit to. You are not alone.

My name is Janine and I am honoured to be writing this with my beautiful friend Danielle who is an amazing young lady. I am fortunate to have her as a good friend and God Mother to my Daughter Olivia. We are very proud of her dedication to training and taking part in this very brave challenge.

Danielle also won the Camp Hero award from WWWCB who said " Danielle has been amazing throughout this camp! She has made the efforts to help those around her and is a great team member. She kindly sponsored our last event and has raised over a whopping £2425 for this event. Well done Danielle. She has to be admired for her courage, outstanding achievements an noble qualities"